Hi: I know it's called a "spindle" but should it actually spin? I just removed the bb from a 12 year old bike. The spindle rotates smoothly, but it certainly doesn't actually spin. If there's no grinding, and it rotates smoothly, is it still OK, despite how old it is? Thanks

Yeh I agree with Bill. In order to help we need some technical information and good photos are a big help.

If you mean that you took the pedals and crank off and the spindle turns freely but does not spin like a pinwheel that is normal, it should turn freely but should not have any side to side play or feel gritty.

If its 12 years old it would be a good time to grease it and replace the bearings, unless its a sealed Bottom Bracket.

It should rotate freely with no "pepper grinder" sensation in your fingertips. It will not "spin" as in spin like a top, unless you have one or both crank arms installed, in which case you can make it spin a few rotations on its own.

H: It's just a Shimano cartridge bearing, so don't think a picture would tell you anything. But seems like the question was answered - even though it's old, the spindle turns smoothly and there's no play, so seems like it's still good. Thanks!